When it comes to running, you just can’t beat the misty spring mornings in Georgia. In fact, many of the top footraces around Atlanta take place in March and April for this very reason.
Whether you’re an experienced runner attempting to place in your next marathon, or a newbie just hoping to finish your first 5K, get out there and hit the pavement this spring with these not-to-miss events.
Along with a sense of accomplishment after crossing the finish line, you’ll also improve your health and receive a nifty t-shirt to boot.
» RELATED: Your guide to the Olympic marathon trials in Atlanta
» RELATED: Cupid's Undie Run brings 'brief' race to Atlanta
So, lace up your sneakers and grab a water bottle, because these spring footraces can’t be beat:
2020 Publix Atlanta Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K. 7 a.m., March 1. $120-$140 for marathon participants, $100-$120 for half marathon participants, $35-$45 for 5K participants. Centennial Olympic Park. 265 Park Ave. W NW, Atlanta. 404-231-9064. www.atlantatrackclub.org.
The 2020 Publix Atlanta Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K is back at Centennial Olympic Park, and for a little added excitement, it all takes place the day after the Olympic Team Trials Marathon. The amazing course takes runners on a beautiful view past some of Atlanta’s most iconic neighborhoods, monuments and stadiums. Participants will receive event swag including a t-shirt and medal.
Sunrise Marathon Atlanta. Multiple times available. March 7. $50 for half marathon participants, $42 for 10K participants, $39 for 5K participants. Piedmont Park. 400 Park Drive NE, Atlanta. Contact. www.sunrisemarathon.org.
For those of you who feel intimidated by large crowds, try the Sunrise Marathon, which offers six different race times with a 40 participant cap per race. Racers will receive a race shirt, a run cap or water carabiner, drawstring bag and finisher’s award. This local’s favorite follows a beautiful course through Piedmont Park and sells out fast, so preregistration is recommended.
Shamrock 'N Roll Road Race. March 14. $40-$50 for 10K participants, $30-$45 for 5K participants, $15-$20 for kids. Atlantic Station. 1371 Market St., Atlanta. 404-261-7799. www.jlatlanta.org.
Get decked out in green and join the Junior League of Atlanta for the 16th Annual Shamrock ‘N Roll Race at Atlantic Station. Proceeds from this Peachtree Road Race Qualifier help fund projects, programs and training for JLA members and the community.
» RELATED: Running a marathon in 2020? You may be doing your arteries a favor
7th Annual Doggie Dash and 5K. 9 a.m., March 15. $25-$35 per participant. Magnolia Hall at Piedmont Park. 1320 Monroe Drive NE, Atlanta. 404-692-6135. www.piedmontpark.org.
Help enhance and maintain the Piedmont Park Dog Parks by running in the 7th Annual Doggie Dash and 5K. Hosted by the Piedmont Park Conservancy, this dog-friendly event features a 1-mile dash and a 5K race, perfect for runners of all levels. Participants will receive a swag bag and dog vendors will be onsite.
The Color Run. 7:45 a.m., April 5. $14.99-$39.99 per participant. 275 Riverside Parkway, Austell. Contact. www.thecolorrun.com.
A race like no other, you’ll wear white at the start of this colorful 5K and finish covered in vibrant pigments. As an Atlanta favorite, The Color Run has become one of the top not-to-miss races in Georgia. Arrive early for the Get Up & Glow Party with warm-up stretching, dancing and giveaways, and get decked out with body paint and glitter at the Shake & Shimmer Station. Stick around after this untimed event for the Finish Festival, which includes music, activities, photo opportunities, vendors and more.
Atlanta Dogwood Festival Mimosa 5K. 8 a.m., April 18. $30 per participant. Piedmont Park. 400 Park Drive, Atlanta. 404-817-6642. www.dogwood.org.
The Mimosa 5K is back at Piedmont Park with a delightful run through the streets of Midtown. This year’s event is estimated to attract over 1000 participants and will feature a scenic course with a champagne and orange juice toast at the finish line. All runners will enjoy the Atlanta Dogwood Festival for free after the race.
» RELATED: Get your groove on and dance the night away at these Atlanta events
SweetWater 420 Fest 5K. 8 a.m., April 25. $28 per participant. Centennial Olympic Park. 265 Park Ave. W NW, Atlanta. Contact. https://www.sweetwater420fest.com/420-fest-5k/
Go on a “beer run” at the SweetWater 420 Fest 5K with a course through Centennial Olympic Park and cold beer waiting for you after the race. This Peachtree Road Race Qualifier is a USATF Certified race and sells out quickly, so make sure to register early.
About the Author
